Search Results (37)

Maintaining voltage stability and minimizing power losses for remote marine loads powered by long submarine cables is the challenging context of this paper. Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) are well-studied for terrestrial grids. However, their comparative performance and efficiency in the context of high-capacity submarine links remain a gap in the literature. This paper presents a rigorous analysis of the performance of a Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC), Static Synchronous Series Compensator (SSSC), and Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC). A mathematical framework is developed to introduce the “solution circle” concept, which demonstrates that the series impedance values required to maintain a specific load voltage define a circle in the complex plane. A theoretical analysis is performed, revealing that the UPFC, with its two degrees of freedom, is significantly more efficient because it can select the minimum impedance magnitude on this circle. In contrast, SSSC and TCSC are limited to the reactive axis, which, under certain operating conditions, may not cross the solution circle; therefore, they may not meet the power quality objective. The results of a practical case study show that UPFC requires approximately half the rated power (22.4 MVA) compared to its counterparts (39.4 MVA) to achieve the same control objectives. Full article

This study presents a command-filtered fuzzy adaptive control method for nonlinear thyristor controlled series compensation (TCSC) systems subject to actuator faults, unknown nonlinearities, and unmeasurable states. To enhance applicability, the TCSC-based single-machine infinite-bus (SMIB) system is first transformed into a nonlinear form preserving the inherent nonlinear characteristics of the power system. A state observer is then designed to estimate the unmeasurable states. Using these estimated states, a fuzzy control algorithm approximates the uncertain nonlinearities. By integrating command filtering techniques, an adaptive output feedback controller is developed, which ensures system stability and avoids the “explosion of complexity” issue. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed control approach. Full article

(1) Introduction. To improve access times and provide effective treatment to the growing patient population with acute stroke due to large vessel occlusion (LVO), thrombectomy-capable stroke centers (TCSCs) should be made an integral part of hospital infrastructure in Poland. The geographical proximity of thrombectomy-capable centers and recently extended treatment time windows will considerably increase patient numbers, decrease patient disability, and reduce the costs of long-term care. (2) Aim of the study. This study investigates the clinical outcomes, time metrics, and angiographic data of a cohort containing 250 thrombectomy patients at a single TCSC in Poland. We measured performance against data from the national database during two crucial time intervals: at the very beginning of the center’s service and after the involvement of a new operator. This study considers concurrent modifications in qualification guidelines, the TCSC’s transition from a ‘direct-admission-only’ to a ‘drip-and-ship’ model, and the learning curve of the interventional stroke team. (3) Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 250 patients treated from August 2020 to May 2025 at a newly established TCSC. The cohort was dived into 2 subgroups: an initial group of 100 patients, whose treatment corresponded to the involvement of a new, previously trained on-site operator and the establishment of 24/7 service, and a group of 150 patients who received later treatment. Additional comparisons were made between a cohort of directly admitted patients and those treated under the drip-and-ship model. The results compared between patients treated with early and expanded time windows. (4) Results. Significant differences were observed between the first 100 and subsequent 150 patients in terms of admission scheme (97% vs. 70%, p < 0.0001), extended time window treatment (8% vs. 17.3%, p < 0.05), and intravenous thrombolysis treatment (81% vs. 65.3%, p < 0.01). Improvements in time intervals and procedural factors were noted in the second group, reflecting the operator’s increased experience (groin-to-first pass time: 27 vs. 23 min, p < 0.05). A comparative analysis between the direct admission and drip-and-ship models revealed extended time intervals in the latter (door-to-groin: 110 vs. 159 min, p < 0.001; door-to-recanalization: 158 vs. 200 min, p < 0.001; door-to-CT: 9 vs. 16.5 min, p < 0.001; and door-to-IVT: 21 vs. 43 min, p < 0.001). Patients in the extended time window exhibited lower intravenous thrombolysis rates (78.2% vs. 29.4%, p < 0.0001) and prolonged door-to-groin (117.5 vs. 150 min, p < 0.005), door-to-CT (10 vs. 19.5 min, p < 0.01), and door-to-IVT (25 vs. 77.5 min, p < 0.001) times. No significant differences were found in complication rates, clinical outcomes, or mortality between the analyzed subgroups. (5) Conclusions. The present data demonstrate favorable clinical and angiographic results among acute LVO stroke patients at the newly established TCSC, both at the onset of the mechanical thrombectomy service and after the involvement of a newly trained operator. Even when treating patients with prolonged times due to transportation and late window qualification, we observed favorable clinical outcomes and low rates of complications. The results achieved in our TCSC compared with the national data suggest that TCSCs could potentially play an important role within the overall endovascular treatment system for acute ischemic stroke patients in Poland. Full article

The paper finds optimal power flows and optimal placement of wind power plants (WPPs), static var compensators (SVCs), and thyristor-controlled series capacitors (TCSCs) in the IEEE 30-bus transmission power network by applying three high-performance algorithms, such as the equilibrium optimizer (EO), the Coot optimization algorithm (COOT), and the marine predators algorithm (MPSA). The three algorithms are run for the system without any added electric components and with three single objectives, including active power losses, total fuel cost, and total voltage deviation, for comparison with other previous algorithms. The three algorithms can reach better results than many algorithms and suffer worse results than a few algorithms. EO is more effective than MPSA and COOT in all cases. For simulation cases with SVCs, TCSCs, and WPPs, the losses are significantly reduced compared to the base case. The power loss of the base case is 3.066 MW, and the best loss is 2.869 MW for two cases with two SVCs and one TCSC. When applying the obtained solution and optimizing the placement of one, two, and three WPPs, the power loss is, respectively, 2.053, 1.512, and 1.112 MW. By optimizing two SVCs, one TCSC, and WPPs simultaneously, the power loss is, respectively, 2.041, 1.508, and 1.093 MW for one, two, and three WPPs. So, the optimal placement of TCSCs, SVCs, and WPPs can result in high benefits for power systems. Full article

In the rapidly evolving landscape of electrical power systems, optimal power flow (OPF) has become a key factor for efficient energy management, especially with the expanding integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) and Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices. These elements introduce significant challenges in managing OPF in power grids. Their inherent variability and complexity demand advanced optimization methods to determine the optimal settings that maintain efficient and stable power system operation. This paper introduces a multi-objective version of the Kepler optimization algorithm (KOA) based on the non-dominated sorting (NS) principle referred to as NSKOA to deal with the optimal power flow (OPF) optimization in the IEEE 57-bus power system. The methodology incorporates RES integration alongside multiple types of FACTS devices. The model offers flexibility in determining the size and optimal location of the static var compensator (SVC) and thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC), considering the associated investment costs. Further enhancements were observed when combining the integration of FACTS devices and RESs to the network, achieving a reduction of 6.49% of power production cost and 1.31% from the total cost when considering their investment cost. Moreover, there is a reduction of 9.05% in real power losses (RPLs) and 69.5% in voltage deviations (TVD), while enhancing the voltage stability index (VSI) by approximately 26.80%. In addition to network performance improvement, emissions are reduced by 22.76%. Through extensive simulations and comparative analyses, the findings illustrate that the proposed approach effectively enhances system performance across a variety of operational conditions. The results underscore the significance of employing advanced techniques in modern power systems enhance overall grid resilience and stability. Full article

Ensuring the stability of power systems is essential to promote energy sustainability. The integrated operation of these systems is critical in sustaining modern societies and economies, responding to the increasing demand for electricity and curbing environmental consequences. This study focuses on the optimization of energy system stability through the coordination of power system stabilizers (PSSs) and power oscillation dampers (PODs) in a single-machine infinite bus energy grid configuration that has flexible AC alternating current transmission system (FACTS) devices. Intelligent control strategies using PSS and POD techniques are suggested to increase power system stability and generate supplementary control signals for both the generator excitation system and FACTS device switching control. An intelligent optimal modal control framework equipped with deep learning methods is introduced to control the generator excitation system and thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC). By optimally choosing the weighting matrix Q and implementing close-loop pole shifting, an optimal modal control approach is formulated. To harness its adaptive potential in fine-tuning controller parameters, an auxiliary deep learning-based optimization algorithm with actor–critic architecture is implemented. This comprehensive technique provides a promising path to effectively reduce electromechanical oscillations, thereby enhancing voltage regulation and transient stability in power systems. Full article

Due to the radial network structures, small cross-sectional lines, and light loads characteristic of existing AC distribution networks in mountainous areas, the development of active distribution networks (ADNs) in these regions has revealed significant issues with integrating distributed generation (DGs) and consuming renewable energy. Focusing on this issue, this paper proposes a wide-range thyristor-controlled series compensation (TCSC)-based ADN and presents a deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based optimal operation strategy. This strategy takes into account the complementarity of hydropower, photovoltaic (PV) systems, and energy storage systems (ESSs) to enhance the capacity for consuming renewable energy. In the proposed ADN, a wide-range TCSC connects the sub-networks where PV and hydropower systems are located, with ESSs configured for each renewable energy generation. The designed wide-range TCSC allows for power reversal and improves power delivery efficiency, providing conditions for the optimization operation. The optimal operation issue is formulated as a Markov decision process (MDP) with continuous action space and solved using the twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) algorithm. The optimal objective is to maximize the consumption of renewable energy sources (RESs) and minimize line losses by coordinating the charging/discharging of ESSs with the operation mode of the TCSC. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article

In vitro culture allows the production of numerous plants with both desirable and undesirable traits. To investigate the impact of the propagation method on highbush blueberry plants, an analysis was performed on four groups of differentially propagated plants: in vitro with axillary (TC-Ax) or adventitious shoots (TC-Ad), conventionally (SC) and using a mixed method (TC/SC). The analysis included plant features (shoot length and branching, chlorophyll and fluorescence and DNA methylation) and fruit properties (antioxidant compounds). The data obtained indicated significant differences between plants propagated conventionally and in vitro, as well as variations among plants derived from in vitro cultures with different types of explants. SC plants generally exhibited the lowest values of morphological and physiological parameters but produced fruits richest in antioxidant compounds. TC/SC plants were dominant in length, branching and fluorescence. Conversely, TC-Ax plants produced fruits with the lowest levels of antioxidant compounds. The methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) technique was employed to detect molecular differences. TC-Ad plants showed the highest methylation level, whereas SC plants had the lowest. The overall methylation level varied among differentially propagated plants. It can be speculated that the differences among the analysed plants may be attributed to variations in DNA methylation. Full article

Power system stability is of paramount importance in the context of energy sustainability. The reliable and efficient operation of power systems is crucial for supporting modern societies, economies, and the growing demand for electricity while minimizing environmental impact and increasing sustainability. Due to the insufficient effect of power system stabilizers (PSSs) on damping the inter-area mode oscillations, Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices are utilized for damping this mode and stabilizing power systems. In the present study, a novel optimization framework considering different and variable weight coefficients based on eigenvalue locations is presented, and the parameters of PSS and variable impedance devices, including static Volt-Ampere Reactive (VAR) compensator (SVC) and Thyristor-Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC) (comprising amplifying gain factor and time constants of phase-compensating blocks), are optimized in a coordinated manner using the proposed optimization framework built based on genetic algorithm (GA). Moreover, in the suggested optimization framework, the locations of FACTS devices and control signals are considered optimization parameters. Numerical results for the IEEE 69-bus power system demonstrated an effective improvement in the damping of inter-area modes utilizing the offered approach. Full article

Given the intricate nature of contemporary energy systems, addressing the control and stability analysis of these systems necessitates the consideration of highly large-scale models. Transient stability analysis stands as a crucial challenge in enhancing energy system efficiency. Power System Stabilizers (PSSs), integrated within excitation control for synchronous generators, offer a cost-effective means to bolster power systems’ stability and reliability. In this study, we propose an enhanced nonlinear control strategy based on synergetic control theory for PSSs. This strategy aims to mitigate electromechanical oscillations and rectify the limitations associated with linear approximations within large-scale energy systems that incorporate thyristor-controlled series capacitors (TCSCs). To dynamically adjust the coefficients of the nonlinear controller, we employ the Fractional Order Fish Migration Optimization (FOFMO) algorithm, rooted in fractional calculus (FC) theory. The FOFMO algorithm adapts by updating position and velocity within fractional-order structures. To assess the effectiveness of the improved controller, comprehensive numerical simulations are conducted. Initially, we examine its performance in a single machine connected to the infinite bus (SMIB) power system under various fault conditions. Subsequently, we extend the application of the proposed nonlinear stabilizer to a two-area, four-machine power system. Our numerical results reveal highly promising advancements in both control accuracy and the dynamic characteristics of controlled power systems. Full article

The present study introduces a subtraction-average-based optimization algorithm (SAOA), a unique enhanced evolutionary technique for solving engineering optimization problems. The typical SAOA works by subtracting the average of searcher agents from the position of population members in the search space. To increase searching capabilities, this study proposes an improved SAO (ISAO) that incorporates a cooperative learning technique based on the leader solution. First, after considering testing on different standard mathematical benchmark functions, the proposed ISAOA is assessed in comparison to the standard SAOA. The simulation results declare that the proposed ISAOA establishes great superiority over the standard SAOA. Additionally, the proposed ISAOA is adopted to handle power system applications for Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC) allocation-based losses reduction in electrical power grids. The SAOA and the proposed ISAOA are employed to optimally size the TCSCs and simultaneously select their installed transmission lines. Both are compared to two recent algorithms, the Artificial Ecosystem Optimizer (AEO) and AQuila Algorithm (AQA), and two other effective and well-known algorithms, the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) and Particle Swarm Optimizer (PSO). In three separate case studies, the standard IEEE-30 bus system is used for this purpose while considering varying numbers of TCSC devices that will be deployed. The suggested ISAOA’s simulated implementations claim significant power loss reductions for the three analyzed situations compared to the GWO, AEO, PSO, and AQA. Full article

The problem regarding the optimal placement and sizing of different FACTS (flexible alternating current transmission systems) in electrical distribution networks is addressed in this research by applying a master–slave optimization approach. The FACTS analyzed correspond to the unified power flow controller (UPFC), the thyristor-controlled shunt compensator (TCSC, also known as the thyristor switched capacitor, or TSC), and the static var compensator (SVC). The master stage is entrusted with defining the location and size of each FACTS device using hybrid discrete-continuous codification through the application of the black widow optimization (BWO) approach. The slave stage corresponds to the successive approximations power flow method based on the admittance grid formulation, which allows determining the expected costs of the energy losses for a one-year operation period. The numerical results in the IEEE 33-, 69-, and 85-bus grids demonstrate that the best FACTS device for locating in distribution networks is the SVC, given that, when compared to the UPFC and the TCSC, it allows for the best possible reduction in the equivalent annual investment and operating cost. A comparative analysis with the General Algebraic Modeling System software, with the aim to solve the exact mixed-integer nonlinear programming model, demonstrated the proposed BWO approach’s effectiveness in determining the best location and size for the FACTS in radial distribution networks. Reductions of about $12.63\%$ and $13.97\%$ concerning the benchmark cases confirmed that the SVC is the best option for reactive power compensation in distribution grids. Full article

The optimal structure of the acute ischaemic stroke treatment network is unknown and eagerly sought. To make it most effective, different treatment and transportation strategies have been developed and investigated worldwide. Since only a fraction of acute stroke patients with large vessel occlusion are treated, a new entity—thrombectomy-capable stroke centre (TCSC)—was introduced to respond to the growing demand for timely endovascular treatment. The purpose of this study was to present the early experience of the first 70 patients treated by mechanical means in a newly developed cardiac Cathlab-based TCSC. The essential safety and efficacy measures were recorded and compared with those reported in the invasive arm of the HERMES meta-analysis—the largest published dataset on the subject. We found no significant differences in terms of clinical and safety outcomes, such as early neurological recovery, level of functional independence at 90 days, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage, parenchymal haematoma type 2, and mortality. These encouraging results obtained in the small endovascular centre may be an argument for the introduction of the TCSC into operating stroke networks to increase patient access to timely treatment and to improve clinical outcomes. Full article

Owing to geographical and political influences, Korea has an independent electric power system and the highest density of electric power facilities in the world. Large-scale base power generation complexes are located in non-metropolitan coastal areas, while the most expensive combined cycle power plants are operating or under construction in the metropolitan areas, which have the largest electricity demand. It has become difficult to secure a site for power plants, and the existing power transmission network is insufficient because of the additional construction of generators in existing power generation complexes, the increase in capacity of facilities, and the rapid increase in new and renewable energy. In particular, the East Coast region has a problem of transient stability for this reason, which is being addressed in advance through power generation restrictions. In addition, TCSC (Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor) is installed and operated to expand the capacity of existing power transmission lines and improve stability in the failures of nearby high-voltage lines until new transmission lines that take more than 10 years are installed to resolve power generation restrictions. However, after the construction of a new transmission line, the efficiency of the existing TCSC is degraded, and for efficient use, it is necessary to rearrange the installation location to utilize the optimal TCSC according to changes in the configuration of the nearby power system. Moreover, a detailed analysis is needed on whether the TCSC designed according to the existing grid configuration exhibits accurate control performance even after the relocation and whether it interferes with nearby generators. In addition to the dynamic performance based on real-time simulations, it is necessary to study the control performance and interaction for this power electronic equipment. This study verified the need to change controller parameters, the interaction effect with nearby generators for stable operation, and the system effect of TCSC relocation using the same replica controller as the actual field controller, as well as RTDS (Real Time Digital Simulation) simulating the entire power transmission system. Full article

This paper proposes a novel robust thyristor-controlled series compensator (TCSC) controller based on proportional integral derivative with filter (PIDF) and uses a new hybrid optimisation evolutionary programming sine cosine algorithm (EPSCA) to improve the power system’s angle stability. The problem of the PIDF-TCSC design is transformed into an optimisation problem based on performance indices, such as damping factor, damping ratio, and eigenvalues, where the multi-objective function is employed to obtain the optimal stabiliser parameters. To examine the robustness of PIDF-TCSC, it was tested on a single-machine infinite-bus power system under different operating conditions. The performance of the system with the PIDF-TCSC controller was compared with the simulation results, and the results obtained with the proposed EPSCA were compared with those obtained with SCA, moth flame optimisation, and EP-based PIDF-TCSC methods. Simulation results showed the effectiveness of EPSCA for the PIDF-TCSC design and the superior robust performance for the enhancement of power system stability compared with other techniques in different cases. Full article